Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ALAT Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and detailed explanations. Boost your readiness and confidence!

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What does the prefix 'patho-' signify in medical terms?

  1. Healing

  2. Pain

  3. Disease

  4. Growth

The correct answer is: Disease

The prefix 'patho-' is derived from the Greek word "pathos," which means suffering or disease. In medical terminology, it specifically indicates something related to disease states or disorders. For instance, in terms like pathology, it refers to the study of diseases, including their causes, processes, development, and consequences. In addition to disease, the prefix can often imply conditions that result from diseases or disorders, highlighting its integral role in the classification of various medical and biological terminologies. Understanding this prefix is crucial for anyone entering the medical field, as it forms part of many terms you will encounter frequently in practice and study.